What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
epistolic
Example
She was known for her epistolic skills, often corresponding with friends and family. [epistolic: adjective]
Example
The novel was written in an epistolic style, with each chapter composed of letters between the characters. [epistolic: adjective]
epistolary
Example
The author's epistolary skills were evident in the way she crafted her characters' letters. [epistolary: adjective]
Example
The novel was an epistolary masterpiece, with each chapter composed of letters between the characters. [epistolary: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Epistolary is more commonly used than epistolic in academic and literary contexts. Epistolary is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while epistolic is less common and may be considered outdated.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between epistolic and epistolary?
Both epistolic and epistolary are formal words that are commonly used in academic and literary contexts. However, epistolary is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.